The Editors’ Council has strongly condemned the murder of journalist Lutfuzzaman Fakir, describing it as a grave attack on independent journalism, freedom of expression and the public’s right to know.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the council said ensuring journalists’ safety was a fundamental responsibility of a democratic state and that the culture of impunity surrounding attacks on and the murder of journalists was unacceptable.
The council expressed deep sympathy for Fakir’s bereaved family and solidarity with his colleagues.
It demanded a fair, impartial, transparent and swift investigation into the murder, calling for the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of everyone involved, directly or indirectly.
The investigation must also examine whether the killing was linked to political, personal or professional disputes and whether Fakir had received any threats before his death, the statement said.
It added that everyone involved must be brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliation, social status or influence.
Any obstruction of the legal process, whether through pressure from influential quarters or attempts by suspects to evade arrest, would undermine journalists’ safety and public confidence in the rule of law, the council said.
The council called on the government and law enforcement agencies to take immediate and effective measures to ensure journalists’ safety.
It also urged democratic forces, civil society and other stakeholders to unite in defending press freedom and protecting journalists, stressing that intimidation, attacks and murder must not be allowed to silence the pursuit of truth.
The council said those responsible for Fakir’s murder must face exemplary punishment and that the culture of impunity surrounding attacks on journalists must end.
Lutforzzaman Alif Fakir, Netrokona correspondent for the private internet protocol television (IPTV) channel Ruposhi Bangla, was shot dead in the Telanjia area of Durgapur on the night of October 15, according to media reports.